The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has undertaken several initiatives to curb the misuse of telecom resources in cybercrime and financial fraud. Fraudsters employ various tactics to exploit these resources, including acquiring Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards or other telecom identifiers like SMS headers to send bulk messages through fraudulent means, deception, or impersonation. Instances have been observed where individuals obtain SIM cards in their name and pass them on to others, who then misuse them for cyber fraud, making the original owner liable for legal consequences.

In some cases, SIM cards are procured using fake documents, fraud, deception, or impersonation, constituting an offence under the Telecommunication Act, 2023. There have also been instances where Points of Sale (PoS) have been complicit in facilitating such fraudulent procurements, thereby abetting the offence.

Additionally, fraudsters manipulate telecom identifiers such as Calling Line Identity (CLI), commonly known as phone numbers, through various means, including mobile applications. Other unique telecom identifiers, such as IP addresses, IMEI (mobile device identifiers), and SMS headers, are also being tampered with to send fraudulent messages.

These activities violate the provisions of the Telecommunication Act, 2023, and are considered criminal offences under the law. Specifically, Section 42(3)(c) prohibits tampering with telecom identifiers, while Section 42(3)(e) bars obtaining SIM cards or other identifiers through fraudulent means, deception, or impersonation. Furthermore, Section 42(7) classifies these offences as cognizable and non-bailable, overriding the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Offenders under Section 42(3) may face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to fifty lakh rupees, or both. Those found aiding or abetting such offences under Section 42(6) are subject to the same penalties.

These provisions serve as a strong deterrent against telecom-related fraud, reinforcing a secure and safe telecom ecosystem for all citizens. The DoT remains committed to preventing the misuse of telecom resources through the implementation of advanced solutions and policies.